No its not required. But if you wish you could get the computer install linux MCE and just get the card later, but I wouldn't suggest getting an x16 card right off as you might need a higher end graphics card.

No need for the TV card, just make sure and spend 400,- NOK on an Nvidia Gf 6x00 or better. 2000,- Nok, that is very good.I bought my current test rig on a "loppemarked" for 300,- and it works like a charm, of course adding the wanted hardware did triple that price